SOUTH EUCLID, Ohio -- Do you travel with your pooch leave your dog at home with a pet sitter?

During the holiday season, many pet-sitting services experience an increase in business because pet owners do not want to subject their dogs to stressful traveling conditions via vehicle or plane.

Tamarah Tidmore, owner of Pet Taxi and Pet Services in South Euclid, Ohio, said many of her clients realize that leaving a pet in a familiar environment is best.

"It is safer and healthier for a dog to stay in its own environment," Tidmore said. "There's no trauma involved."

She added that it is important to select sitters that are compatible with your pooch. It is also important to have a custom service plan to fit the dog’s routine potty breaks, feeding time and walks.

To insure that this happens, she conducts "pet consults" with the owner and dog to become familiar. She added that at least two of her staff members are matched with a dog.

Tidmore, who has been in business for 17 years, said pet sitting is ideal if a family will be away for two to three days. If a trip will be longer, she suggests that the dog is provided with overnight service or taken into a staff member’s home to curb any separation anxiety.

Securing pet-sitting contracts helps Pet Taxi and Pet Services' bottom line, but Tidmore does not suggest pet sitting only because of the financial gain.

"It's not really a humane situation, and it's really loud," Tidmore said of pets being placed in the cargo area of planes. Typically, only smaller breeds are allowed in the passenger area.

Traveling By Plane

But if you plan to travel by plane with your pooch, there are a few things you should know.

Amy Kudwa, public affairs specialist for TSA, said the liquid and gel guidelines would unlikely affect pet travel unless the owner is carrying a water bowl.

If so, the 3-1-1 guideline that requires liquid or gel products to be in a 3-ounce container applies and dog owners may want to consider "refilling bowls at water fountains."

It is also important that your dog is being transported in an airline-approved crate or carrier. Be sure to add extra cushion so that your pooch is comfortable.

According to the American Kennel Club, there are a few more things to keep in mind. They are:

• Airlines require health certifications and proof of vaccinations.
• Dogs must also be in an airline-approved crate when transported as cargo. Small dog may remain at a seat or in a crate or carrier.
• Some airlines will not transport animals in extremely hot or cold weather.

It's important to contact your airline carrier for specific information.

Traveling By Car

Not all families will travel by plane for the holidays. Some families will get to grandma's house by car. If you plan to carry your pooch along for the ride, be sure that the dog is welcomed at the relative's house, Tidmore said.

"You have to deal with whether your relatives are dog-friendly or not," she said, adding she only travels with her dog by car.

After it has been determined that family members will welcome your pooch, it is important to let your pooch travel on an empty stomach to curb any sickness while riding along in the car.

It will also be important to stop frequently for potty breaks.

Be sure to carry food and any medications for your pooch. Also research a veterinarian in case of an emergency while away from home.